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Iodine-131 Diagnostic Scan

Iodine-131 Diagnostic Scan

5000+ scans done & counting

Iodine-131 diagnostic scan is a medical imaging procedure utilized primarily to evaluate the thyroid gland and other structures that uptake iodine. The thyroid gland is situated in the neck and produces thyroid hormones, which are crucial for metabolism, growth, and development.Iodine is a vital element used by the thyroid gland in producing thyroid hormones. Iodine-131 is a radioactive isotope of iodine, and when it is administered to the patient, it is taken up by the thyroid gland in a similar way as non-radioactive iodine. The radioactivity allows for imaging and can help physicians evaluate the function and structure of the thyroid gland.

Home Sample Collection Process

1
Book your convenient slot
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
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Download Reports

Note: Home Sample Collection is only for Pathology lab tests.

The Iodine-131 diagnostic scan is often employed to investigate the causes of an overactive thyroid, assess the presence of thyroid nodules, and monitor patients who have undergone thyroid cancer surgery. It can also be used in certain cases to evaluate iodine uptake in other parts of the body.

Specific Instructions:

  • 1

    Dietary Restrictions: A low-iodine diet may be recommended for one to two weeks before the procedure. This helps ensure that the thyroid gland will take up the radioactive iodine efficiently.

  • 2

    Medications: Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as you might be advised to avoid certain medications that can affect thyroid function.

  • 3

    Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, especially if you have had a reaction to iodine or shellfish in the past.

  • 4

    Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you must inform your doctor, as the test is not usually performed on pregnant or nursing women due to the radiation exposure to the baby.

  • 5

    Previous Imaging Procedures: Inform your doctor if you have recently undergone any imaging test with contrast material, as it can interfere with the results.

  • 6

    You will be given a small amount of radioactive iodine-131, either as a pill or a liquid.

  • 7

    After ingestion, you will need to wait for the iodine-131 to be absorbed by the thyroid gland. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days.

  • 8

    Once the iodine-131 is absorbed, you will be asked to lie down on an examination table, and a special camera will capture images of your thyroid gland.

  • 9

    You may need to return for additional images over the next several days.

  • 10

    It is essential for assessing thyroid function and anatomy.

  • 11

    It can detect thyroid nodules or tumors.

  • 12

    It can help diagnose the cause of hyperthyroidism.

  • 13

    It is important for monitoring patients with a history of thyroid cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Iodine-131 diagnostic scan provides both structural and functional information regarding the thyroid gland and its ability to uptake iodine. This is critical for diagnosing thyroid disorders and determining the proper course of treatment.

  • Dietary iodine intake.

  • Certain medications.

Non-modifiable factors:

  • Underlying thyroid disease.

Yes, the scan is considered safe; however, as it involves exposure to radiation, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

The scan itself is quick, but you may need to wait several hours or even a few days after taking the radioactive iodine for the scan to be performed.

Your doctor may recommend a low-iodine diet for a few weeks before the test.

Wear comfortable clothing, and you may be asked to wear a gown.

You can usually go about your day after the test. However, you might be asked to take certain precautions to minimize radiation exposure to others.

Your doctor will discuss the results with you after they are available, which can take a few days.

Depending on the results, your doctor will advise on the next steps, which could include further testing or treatment.

Coverage varies, so check with your insurance provider.

Side effects are minimal, but some patients report a mild sore throat.

If your results are abnormal, you should see an endocrinologist for further assessment and management.

The Iodine-131 diagnostic scan is a valuable tool in the evaluation of thyroid function and structure. It involves the ingestion of a small amount of radioactive iodine, which is taken up by the thyroid gland. This procedure is essential in diagnosing thyroid disorders and is especially useful in cases of thyroid cancer, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules. It is a safe procedure, but pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it due to the radiation exposure. Proper preparation, such as dietary changes, might be required, and patients should follow their doctor’s instructions closely.

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